At the weekend, the Ogun State government threatened to ban the activities of members of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) over planned protests in the state.
The government said it would not surrender and allow any group to threaten the peaceful atmosphere in the state.
The government’s position was in reaction to an alleged plan by some members of NURTW operating in Ijebu Ode to challenge the decisions of the established leadership of the union in the state. In the process, they protested to drive home their position.
In a statement, the Commissioner for Transportation, Engr. Gbenga Dairo warned the union members that the state government would not hesitate to restrict the union’s activities in public spaces if there is any attempt to breach the peace.
The statement said: “It has come to the attention of the Ogun State Ministry of Transportation that some NURTW operating in Ijebu Ode are challenging the decisions of the established NURTW leadership in the state.
“Further to the above, it is reported that disaffected members propose to resort to violence to demonstrate their grievances.
“This bulletin is to notify and remind NURTW and its members of their corporate and personal/individual duty to conduct corporate and personal activities strictly within the ambit of the laws, rules, and regulations that the Constitution of Nigeria demands.
“NURTW and its members are therefore put on notice that the government of Ogun State, under the leadership of His Excellency, Prince Dapo Abiodun, CON, would not tolerate any disturbance of the peace in Ogun State so painstakingly achieved and sustained throughout the life of this administration.
“The leadership and members of NURTW are enjoined to fully operationalise the constitution of the union and transparently activate the dispute resolution clauses and schedules contained therein as appropriate and to avoid any action(s) that may endanger lives and property in our dear state.
“Finally, this message serves as a reminder to all stakeholders that parks and garages in Ogun State are public assets for the safe and secure use of all members of the public and not a preserve of third parties and that, in the wider interest of the public, the government will not hesitate to restrict the activities of unions in public spaces if public safety and security are adjudged at risk.”
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